Hi folks! Today I am writing about how to make your mural art more eco-friendly. I am not a muralist by any means, but it is something I have some interest in pursuing at some point. Of course, I would want my mural practice to be as green and sustainable as possible. If you are a mural artist, please leave your comments and recommendations below.
Of course, the theme of the art itself can be related to the climate crisis, environmental issues, and sustainability. It’s a wonderful thing to raise awareness through our art, but we as artists also have a responsibility of setting the example and protecting our environment and health!
I found some great recommendations from this mural company, Graffiti Arts, which is based in NY and LA. They recommend using water-based spray paints from brands like Montana colors and Sugar Artists Acrylics, instead of oil-based spray paints, which can be more toxic. Graffiti Arts also mentions reverse graffiti and moss graffiti as other eco-friendly options. However, these are generally not as long-lasting as murals made with paints. In reverse graffiti, one uses stencils with a pressure washer to remove dirt and grime from walls, leaving lighter areas exposed. The artwork is made by the contrast of light and dark areas. This website has some great examples of reverse graffiti; it is a great alternative for short-term advertising campaigns. Look at the scale of this one on a dam in Poland! Can you believe it is 4,900 square meters!? Here are some beautiful examples of moss graffiti.
As described here, there are special pigments that can even purify the air of noxious gases and convert them into less harmful substances. This mural is part of the Converse City Forests initiative. See more about it here! WOAH! This mural in south LA was made of a special solar reflective coating and reduces surface temperatures by up to 30 percent. The use of this special coating called Decocoat DP-200 IR Solar Reflective could contribute LEED credits under certain categories.
Here are some additional tips:
Consider asking your neighbors and family members if they have any unused paints laying around that they have no plans on using and would give to you. FREE paint is an awesome thing!
Especially for indoor work, it is important to use low or no VOC paints. VOC stands for volatile organic compounds which are gasses that come off paint as they dry. VOCs can cause a host of health problems as described here, so it is important to minimize them.
Please do not throw paint down either your home or business drains or stomwater drains. Before disposing of paint, check your local municipality regulations. In some places, you can dispose of some types of paints yourself and in other places certain or all kinds of paints are considered hazardous waste and must be handled appropriately.
Instead of throwing out unused paint, consider donating it to local schools or a local community organization. Read here for more tips on where to donate or how to dispose of unused paint.
Use varnishes and solvents in well-ventilated areas, away from wildlife, pets and people. Wear a respirator to protect yourself and gloves (but first make sure the material of the gloves will not react with the chemical you are using).
This website has information on how to dispose of paint thinners.